Deep-Sea Mining Scrutiny: A new look at China’s deep-sea mining fleet says its research ships spent only about 6% of their time in seabed mining areas over five years, with much of their activity elsewhere—raising fresh questions about environmental risk and possible military dual use. Nuclear Waste Debate: Fukushima’s treated wastewater release continues to spark pushback, with scientists and a Pacific Islands Forum-linked expert panel member arguing the ALPS treatment plan has serious scientific problems. Critical Minerals Race: A major global push for lithium, rare earths and other “essential” minerals is accelerating, with governments and firms leaning on AI exploration and advanced drilling—while market forecasts point to big growth through 2040. Pacific Climate Reporting Boost: SPREP is backing a regional media workshop to strengthen how Pacific journalists cover weather and climate, including coverage tied to upcoming meteorology meetings in Tonga. Ocean Conservation & Voyaging: Leaders and experts gathered at Rapa Nui to share voyaging knowledge and coordinate high-seas marine protection efforts, with Cook Islands participation among many Pacific communities. Cook Islands Connectivity: China delivered a new 43-metre inter-island vessel, MV Tuitui Moana, aimed at improving transport across the Pa Enua. Tourism vs Waste: A local critique warns that rising visitor numbers from new air links could outpace waste management, citing high plastic litter levels on Rarotonga beaches. AI in Service Work: A Cook Islands–Tahitian executive at Tower Insurance says AI rollout success depends as much on people adapting as on the technology itself. Agrifood Innovation Call: The Global AgriInno Challenge 2026 is open for SIDS-focused agrifood innovators, with Cook Islands among eligible countries. Digital Harm Warning: A commentary argues digital tools are enabling increasingly severe child sexual abuse imagery, calling for urgent action.